How to Choose the Perfect College Tennis Team: Tips for Junior Players & Parents
Alright, you’ve made it. Years of grinding on the court, trying not to obsess over UTR, countless hours of studying, flights, hotels, wins, losses, and everything in between—it’s all led to this. Now, one big question stares you in the face:
Where are you going to spend the next four years of your tennis journey?
It’s exciting, but let’s not sugarcoat it—this decision can be overwhelming. Hundreds of schools. Different divisions. Cities you’ve never even heard of. How do you decide?
Here’s the secret: ask the following questions early. It’ll help you cut through the noise and find what works for you.
Should you search for a team where you can play high in the lineup right away?
Look, we all dream of playing No. 1 in college. Big fish, small pond, great competition every match—it’s tempting, right? But let me tell you something. Playing high in the lineup is just one part of your development as a player, and it’s not the most important one.
If you’re at the top, that means you’re likely the best player on your team. But ask yourself this: why? Is it because your teammates aren’t driven? Do they skip workouts or treat practices like social hour?
If so, those are your practice partners. Matches make up the smallest percentage of the tennis you’ll play in college. Most of your improvement happens in those everyday grind practice sessions. If your teammates can’t push you, your growth will be capped—and your spot at the top of the lineup could become a frustrating one because of a limited amount of success.
Yes, you can still succeed, but it’s a difficult and lonely road. Worse, it might affect your relationship with your team. Resentment could build, and next thing you know, you’re eyeing the transfer portal.
That’s not the college experience you’ve worked so hard for.
Are These Teammates or Your Second Family?
When you visit a school, don’t just focus on the courts and the facilities. Pay attention to the people. Your teammates will become your family away from home. These are the folks you’ll celebrate with, vent to, and grow alongside.
Ask yourself:
Are these the people I’d want to share road trips and late-night study sessions with?
Do I feel comfortable around them?
Could I call this team home for the next four years?
Trust your gut. If something feels off during your visit, it’ll only be magnified once you’re there full-time.
The Coach-Player Connection Matters. How do you feel about the coaches there?
Let’s talk about the coaches. Do you actually like them? Do you believe they can help you grow—not just as a player, but as a person? Do they share the same values as you? Do you believe they’ll be there for you when times get tough?
If the answer is no, walk away. Even if you’re promised a top lineup spot, at a school you thought would be great, it won’t matter if you don’t connect with the coaching staff. A poor relationship with your coach can drain your motivation and happiness, and once again, you’ll find yourself Googling “how to transfer colleges.”
If you’re unsure, reach out to former players and get their opinion on their former coaches.
How’s the location?
On one of my recruiting trips, I visited the University of Illinois. I loved the team. The coaches were awesome. Everything seemed perfect... until I stepped outside.
It was April. It was 40 degrees. And I saw people walking around in sandals.
I’m a Miami guy. If it drops below 60, I’m already breaking out the gloves. Four years in that weather? No chance.
The point? Be honest with yourself about the location. It plays a role in your experience at school.
What About Academics?
Unless you have your heart set on a super-specific career path, most schools offer plenty of academic flexibility. But remember, you’ll spend more time in class and studying than you will on the tennis court. Make sure the school has programs you’re at least interested in exploring.
The Bottom Line
Here’s the cheat sheet for finding your ideal college tennis program:
Choose the school that fits you—not the one where you’ll play the highest in the lineup.
Find teammates who will push you, support you, and make the journey fun.
Pick coaches you’ll trust, respect and want to learn from.
Make sure you’ll enjoy the city or campus you’ll call home.
Ensure the school offers academic programs that excite you.
This decision will shape the next four years of your life—and maybe the rest of your tennis career if you have pro aspirations. Take your time, trust your instincts, and most importantly, enjoy the process.
Good luck!
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